Dexter Tan and Dr. Ed Merino Win Poster Presentation Award at Central Valley Research Symposium

May 5, 2023

California Health Sciences University College of Osteopathic Medicine (CHSU-COM) is proud to recognize Dexter Tan, second-year medical student, and his faculty mentor, Edward Merino, PhD, Associate Professor of Biomedical Education, for winning the Central Valley Research Symposium poster presentation award in the Health and Human Services Category.

According to the Fresno State website, the 44th annual Central California Research Symposium at Fresno State celebrates undergraduate and graduate excellence in research with nearly 300 student presentations. All fields of research are considered for presentation to exchange further ideas among investigators and the general public.

Applicants are invited to choose one of the following formats: 12-minute oral presentation, poster presentation or 3-Minute Thesis oral presentation.

Tan and Dr. Merino presented their poster titled, “Incorporating 3D-Printer Models in TBL Applications to Enhance Learning,” at the 44th Annual Central California Research Symposium on April 19, 2023.

The poster abstract stated, “Academic fields of study that engage with artifacts, cellular and anatomical structures can benefit from 3D printing technologies. 3D models offer innovative ways to engage with content to foster retention and learners’ engagement by adding greater kinesthetic learning modes.”

Some of the conclusions from their research included that, “3D printing allows for visualization of cellular and anatomic structures thus providing a unique opportunity to use real life scenarios and create engaging hands-on learning experiences. 3D printed models allow learners to visualize the components of the cell which fosters retention. Thus, 3D models can be incorporated in other fields from cell biology to gross anatomy.”

The complete list of awardees at the 44th Annual Central California Research Symposium can be found on the Fresno state website.